Cincinnati makes list of 50 best places to travel — in the world

In Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual list of the best places to travel, you might be surprised that Cincinnati made the cut among exotic worldwide destinations.

Ranked on the list of the 50 best places to travel in 2017, the magazine highlights several reasons why travelers should pack their bags and head to the Queen City.

The recent transformations in Over-the-Rhine were mentioned, including the unique shops and restaurants making that neighborhood a must-see.

Also highlighted were the Cincinnati Bell Connector, which started rolling last year, and the extensive renovations underway at Music Hall.

Just outside the city, Travel + Leisure suggests paying a visit to Hotel Covington, just over the river in Covington, Ky. The 1907 building used to house Coppens Department Store, and its unique architecture and rich history are worth a stop at its Artisan Coffee Bar.

What makes Cincinnati’s ranking even more special is that the list wasn’t just limited to the United States. Cities from around the world were included

Key factors that determine which cities make the cut are new development, food and drink, according to the magazine.